Understanding the MBE-to-MBE Spend Award Requirements

Wondering if your firm qualifies for the MBE-to-MBE Spend Award? Here is a clear look at the eligibility requirements.

First, your company must be an active, NMSDC-certified MBE in good standing. This ensures that all nominees meet the national standards for certification and ethical business practices.

Second, you must demonstrate a consistent track record of purchasing products or services from other certified MBEs over the previous two calendar years. This is not about a single transaction—it is about sustained commitment. Evaluators want to see a pattern of intentional MBE engagement over time.

Third, you must have formed meaningful business partnerships with other certified MBEs. This can include alliances, teaming partnerships, subcontracting arrangements, joint ventures, or providing integrated or complementary services. The key is that these collaborations support the delivery of products or services to corporate or government clients.

Fourth, you must participate in and actively contribute to your local NMSDC Affiliated Council. This can include volunteering on committees, task forces, or Council-led events, as well as financially supporting Council programs and initiatives.

Fifth, you must demonstrate active mentorship of other MBEs—whether through coaching, introductions, business guidance, or support for capacity building and market access.

If your firm checks all five boxes, you are ready to prepare your nomination. Next week, we will cover exactly how to document and present your MBE-to-MBE spend.

The MBE-to-MBE Spend Award is more than recognition. It is a call to action for every certified MBE to invest in our community’s collective success.

 For more information, please contact:

• Lisette Villavicencio, MBEIC Chair: lisette@va-contractor.com
• Eduardo Quijano, Performance & Administration Coordinator: equijano@prmsdc.org

NMBEIC.ORG